China Deepens Central Asia Ties: Air Links, Energy, Trade Expand Under C5+1

China and Central Asian states are accelerating integration through aviation, energy, and trade agreements, with Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan increasing weekly flight quotas and adding new routes. This continues China's established pattern of expanding its Central Asian footprint, but the pace of aviation expansion signals a deliberate push to deepen economic and strategic ties. The development matters as it strengthens China's influence in a region where Russia's traditional dominance is being contested.

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